Beautiful art deco venue, look straight up at the ceiling when you visit.

While Chinese New Year is celebrated on the 28th this year, the Saban Theater in Beverly Hills set the ball rolling with a fantastic performance by artists from the Charming Beijing Variety Show. The theater itself is a renowned venue and the show has gathered appreciation over the last few years with locals and the community. If you don’t believe me, you should have seen the long lines ahead of the show at the entrance!

He had some serious balls...to catch, I mean!

The event featured a photo exhibit and a cultural display explaining the tradition and heritage of the celebration, its importance, and how the community comes together to enjoy this annual festival. Guests were presented with postcards and Chinese zodiac books. But the highlight of the evening was positively the performance itself.

Every time he came out of a split, I pulled a hamstring.

Given the venue’s art deco structure and historic significance, you do expect a certain caliber to the performances here. So I did have very high expectations of the performing troupe, and I was not disappointed. In fact, every act from start to finish was one up over the other. Some of the images here offer a glimpse into the artistry but I was too busy enjoying the performances to actually document it in pictures or video.

My core strengthened holding my breath watching these artists balance

It was a sold out, packed hall and the crowd cheered through the entire evening, which lasted about almost two hours. Among the highlights were balancing acts, contortionists, acrobats, tumblers, dancers, singers and more. The images here really do not do justice. If you can watch this visiting variety show in your city, and support the different performers, please do. Some of the acts were simply unbelievable and can be enjoyed by adults and kiddos alike.

A little treat from Sugarfina to help celebrate!

I will be traveling during Chinese New Year this year but wherever you are celebrating, I hope you will share in the comments below on what’s happening in your city!

*While I was an invited guest of the host at this event, all opinions are my own*